Navigation of Electronic af officer Classification Directory

B Biomedical Sciences (DoD Occ Code: 260812)

C Medical (DoD Occ Code: 260105)

D Dental (DoD Occ Code: 260301)

E Nurse (DoD Occ Code: 260509)

HEALTH SERVICES UTILIZATION FIELD (41AX)
Introduction
The Health Services Utilization Field encompasses command, administrative, logistics, and education functions supporting the provision of health care to authorized beneficiaries. This includes planning, programming, and operations related to the following activities: Medical facility command; medical facility administration; medical materiel and services management; medical resource management; patient affairs management; war and emergency planning; aeromedical evacuation; medical recruiting; medical facility repair, modification, and construction; biometrics; health systems design; data systems design; medical research administration; and health services training and education.

AFSC 41A4, Staff

AFSC 41A3, Qualified

AFSC 41A1, Entry

HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATOR

(Changed 31 Oct 07)
1. Specialty Summary. Manages health services activities, including plans and operations, managed care, human resource management, logistics management, patient administration, budgetary and fiscal management, medical manpower, medical facility management, biometrics, medical recruiting, and aeromedical evacuation. Directs the hospital accreditation program and management improvement studies. Related DoD Occupational Group: 260900.
2. Duties and Responsibilities:

2.1. Formulates, interprets, and implements policy. Plans and organizes activities associated with peacetime and wartime health services administration, such as manpower, medical logistics, medical food service, hospitalization and aeromedical evacuation of patients, medical facilities repair, maintenance, construction, modification, and housekeeping, equipment maintenance and repair, information systems, clinical engineering, inpatient and outpatient records, and morale and welfare services for patients and medical personnel.

2.2. Coordinates health services programs. Coordinates with comptroller, civil engineering, civilian and federal agencies, and other Air Force functions and activities to execute health services programs. Advises the medical professional staff and other staff health services officers on administrative matters pertaining to health services programs. Maintains liaison with civilian, military, and other federal activities to keep current in areas of interest to health services administration.

2.3. Monitors and directs health services programs. Interprets and directs the implementation of policies governing health services programs. Directs the management of health services functions such as medical logistics, fiscal management, managed care, human resource management, patient administration, aeromedical evacuation, medical facility construction, modification, and design, and medical research administration. Develops financial plans and budget estimates for Air Force health services programs. Directs the preparation of biometric reports, directives, correspondence, and memoranda pertaining to health services administration. Controls utilization of health services program funds in collaboration with the medical commander and comptroller. Prepares and exercises emergency, disaster, and defense plans, and monitors readiness training. Integrates cost management, quality and access to care issues into health services programs.

3.1. Knowledge. Knowledge is mandatory of: Air Force health services management; hospital administration and practice; contractual and accounting fundamentals; quality management; human resource management; and biometrics.

3.2. Education. For entry into this specialty, one of the following is mandatory:

3.2.1. A graduate degree in health care administration, hospital administration, public administration, business administration, business management, information systems management, finance, accounting, statistics, marketing, economics, or other business-related equivalent.

3.2.2. An undergraduate academic major in accounting, business administration, business management, computer science, information systems, economics, finance, health care administration, marketing, public administration, clinical or health systems engineering, operations research, or other business-related equivalent.

3.3. Training. For award of AFSC 41A3, completion of the basic health services administration course is mandatory.

3.4. Experience. For award of AFSC 41A3, officers must have at least 12 months experience in one of the MSC core functions, which are prescribed as health facilities, health plan management, medical resources, healthcare information management and information technology, medical logistics, and medical readiness (including aeromedical evacuation), and must have the approval of their unit’s senior ranking MSC.

3.5. Other. Not used.

BIOMEDICAL CLINICIAN UTILIZATION FIELD (42XX)

2.1. Plans, coordinates, controls, directs, and evaluates physical therapy activities. Determines and implements policies and procedures pertaining to physical therapy program and activities. Determines requirements for physical therapy services including personnel, equipment, supplies, and continuing education. Establishes professional care standards and establishes and appraises performance levels of subordinates. Coordinates the physical therapy program within the medical facility. Establishes and maintains liaison with civilian and governmental agencies regarding physical therapy. Develops and implements teaching programs and research activities related to physical therapy.

2.2. Plans and develops physical therapy treatments, procedures, and programs. Reviews clinical records and case histories. Interprets requests for physical therapy services. Evaluates patients and determines the type and frequency of physical therapy treatment necessary to assist in the habilitation or rehabilitation of patients. Consults and collaborates with medical personnel, patient, and active duty supervisor as required. Confers with referring medical officer. Makes recommendations regarding the use or adjustment of braces, prostheses, and other related appliances used to support and assist the mobility of the patient.

2.3. Administers physical therapy treatment programs. Supervises the professional phases of physical therapy. Administers physical therapy diagnostic tests and treatment programs. Observes patient's response to treatment and modifies the program to accelerate recovery. Records all pertinent data in the patient's medical records. Participates in quality assessment program.

2.4. Serves in an advisory and teaching capacity. Acts as a consultant to the medical staff on physical therapy matters. Makes recommendations on staffing, physical plant design, and distribution of physical therapy equipment. Establishes requirements and coordinates and conducts educational programs to meet department and facility needs. Evaluates effectiveness and efficiency of physical therapy programs and continuing educational activities.
3. Specialty Qualifications:

3.1. Knowledge. Knowledge is mandatory of physical therapy programs and activities, and physical therapy treatments and diagnostic tests.

3.2. Education. For entry into this specialty, completion of a course in physical therapy acceptable to the Surgeon General, HQ USAF, is mandatory. Minimum educational entry is entry-level doctorate (DPT) or transitional (e.g. post-professional) DPT. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis for exceptionally qualified candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree but who do not have a transitional DPT.

3.3. Training. Not used.

3.4. Experience. For award of AFSC 42B3, a minimum of 6 months of experience is mandatory in physical therapy assignments, including planning, managing, and administering physical therapy treatments and activities for those with the entry-level doctorate (DPT) and transitional (e.g. post-professional) DPT. A minimum of 24 months of experience is mandatory in physical therapy assignments, including planning, managing, and administering physical therapy treatments and activities for those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

3.5. Other.

3.5.1. For entry into this specialty a state license to practice physical therapy is mandatory.

3.5.2. For award and retention of AFSC 42B3, a state license to practice physical therapy is mandatory.

2.1. Examines eyes and vision. Examines, diagnoses, treats, and manages diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures, as well as diagnosis of related systemic conditions utilizing refractive, pharmaceutical, and rehabilitative (low vision, contact lens, and binocular vision) procedures.

2.2. Prescribes treatment. Utilizes and prescribes pharmaceutical agents for the examination of the eye and adnexa as well as treatment and management of vision disorders, diseases, and conditions of the eye and adnexa. Utilizes and prescribes ophthalmic and other rehabilitative prosthetic devices (such as spectacles, contact lenses, low vision devices) and trains in their use.

2.3 Orders studies. Orders diagnostic laboratory studies (such as preparation of specimens for cultures, sensitivity testing, smear and histological analysis, chemistry, hematology, coagulation, serology and immunology, nuclear medicine, and urinalysis); orders diagnostic imaging studies (such as ultrasound of the eye, head, neck, heart; ocular fluorescein and indocynanine green angiography; and radiology of the eye, orbit, head, neck, chest including X-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance angiography with and without contrast).

2.4. Consults with attending physicians and other health care providers. When requested, augments the care of patients and provides referral to appropriate health care providers of patients with medical, surgical, psychiatric, and rehabilitative conditions.

2.5. Performs clinical procedures. Provides refractive status determination; binocular vision status determination; ocular and adnexal health evaluation; external, anterior segment and fundus photography with interpretation; visual field measurement and interpretation, ocular electrodiagnostic measurement with interpretation; ocular diagnostic imaging (optical coherence tomography, scanning laser polarimetry, retinal thickness analyzer, ultrasonographic and laser) measurement with interpretation; ocular angiographic (fluorescein and indocynanine green) photography with interpretation; epilation of lashes; expression of adnexal glands; examination, testing, dilation and irrigation of the lacrimal apparatus; insertion of temporary and permanent punctual plugs; removal of non-perforating foreign bodies from the eye and adnexa.

2.6. Conducts research. Plans and conducts research in areas of clinical optometry and physiological optics, such as physical standards, protective and corrective eyewear, examining methods and techniques, and perceptual problems associated with aeronautics and space flight.

2.7. Manages optometry activities. Directs, supervises, and reviews performance of optometrists and ophthalmic technicians with emphasis on meeting the Air Force Medical Service (AFMS) business plan goals while providing quality care in alignment with the clinical guidelines of the American Optometric Association. Monitors day-to-day clinical and administrative activities to determine compliance with procedures governing optometric activities. Instructs ophthalmic technicians in local operational procedures, and in use and maintenance of ophthalmic instruments. Develops, implements, and conducts process improvement initiatives, collects and analyzes eye and vision treatment outcome data, and develops research program documents, evaluations, procedures, operating instructions, and policies. Reports optometric activities to appropriate squadron commander IAW AFI 48-101, Aerospace Medicine Operations. Leads clinical preparation for Health Services Inspection (HSI) and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO) inspections.

2.8. Manages and directs occupational vision programs. Plans, supervises, and participates in vision conservation and eye protection programs according to AFI 41-115, Authorized Health Care and Health Care Benefits in the Military Health Services System (MHSS) and AFI 44-117, Ophthalmic Services. Works with the base safety office, public health and flight medicine personnel to identify eye hazardous areas and occupations, and supervises visual screening of personnel in such areas. Arranges for professional services, procurement, and dispensing of gas mask inserts, ballistic protective eyewear inserts and safety eye wear for military personnel and civilian employees of the Department of Defense.
2.9. Manages and directs operational programs. Manages and directs the Aircrew Soft Contact Lens Program and the Corneal Refractive Surgery Program, in coordination with the Flight Surgeons Office IAW AFI 48-123, Aerospace Medicine.
3. Specialty Qualifications:

3.1. Knowledge. Must maintain currency in the delivery of primary eye care services to include treatment and management of disease and disorders of the visual system utilizing pharmacology and state-of-the-art ophthalmic technology.

3.2. Education. For entry into this specialty, completion of a Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited four-year college of optometry approved by the Surgeon General, HQ USAF, is mandatory.

3.3. Training. Residency training is recommended, but not mandatory.

3.4. Experience. For award of AFSC 42E3, a minimum of 12 months of experience in optometry assignments is mandatory. Experience must be in primary eye care services to include the examination, diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnosis of related systemic conditions. Perform specialty services including contact lenses, low vision and vision training, and co-management of surgical eye cases and ocular complications of systemic illness.

3.5. Other. For award and retention of AFSC 42E3, an unrestricted state license to practice optometry utilizing therapeutic pharmacologic agents is mandatory. Such licensure must be attained within 12 months of entering active duty.

2.1. Conducts examinations of the foot to provide basis for diagnosis; administers treatment. Interview patient and records patient's case history to determine previous ailments and complaints. Performs examinations to determine physiological and physical abnormality of the foot. Conducts test and supplements examination by arranging various laboratory test analyses and diagnostic x-rays. Interprets laboratory and x-ray results in evaluating examination findings. Assists with or performs outpatient and inpatient surgical procedures of the foot and related structures and follow up care according to standards outlined in the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals Accreditation Manual for Hospitals.

2.2. Plans, administers, and records progress of prescribed courses of treatment of the foot and related structures. Accomplishes therapeutic procedures. Refers patient to and consults with other practitioners, as appropriate, for further care, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Instructs patients in prescribed therapeutic procedures. Prescribes medication within the scope of podiatric practice and clinical privileges.

2.3. Instructs and supervises assistants. Prescribes and supervises instruction in use and maintenance of therapeutic devices. Fits and adjusts appliances and advises patient on care of therapeutic or corrective equipment.

2.4. Conducts research in podiatry. Plans and conducts clinical research. Reviews and studies case histories, analyzes data, and participates with other scientists and physicians in programs to investigate new techniques and methods to improve foot health and human effectiveness of Air Force personnel.

2.5. Participates in special programs. Plans, supervises, and participates in specialized Air Force health programs such as the Exceptional Family Member Program, Aerospace Medical Program, and Occupational Health Program.

3.1. Knowledge. Knowledge is mandatory of procedures and methods used in examination and treatment of the human foot.

3.2. Education. For entry into this specialty, graduation from a school or college of podiatry acceptable to the Surgeon General, HQ USAF, is mandatory. Additionally, a valid and current license to practice podiatry from a state or U.S. territory or the District of Columbia is mandatory for entry into this specialty.

3.3. Training. Completion of 24 month podiatric residency program is required for active duty accession. Candidate must be board eligible, qualified or certified by an accepted, recognized professional board.

3.4. Experience. For award of AFSC 42F3, a minimum of 6 months of experience in podiatry assignments is mandatory.

3.5. Other. For award and retention of AFSC 42F3, a valid and current license to practice podiatry is mandatory.

2.1. Privileged health care providers who use critical judgment to perform comprehensive health assessments, differential diagnosis, and prescribe pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments in direct management of acute and chronic illness, injury or disease. Practice is governed by AFI 44-102, Medical Care Management, AFI-44-119, Clinical Performance Improvement and as approved by the facility Credentials Review Committee. Obtains and evaluates medical histories, performs physical examinations, performs therapeutic and diagnostic procedures, and orders laboratory studies and radiographic studies as well as other special examinations. Collects specimens for pathologic examination. Analyzes and interprets data, formulates problem lists, and establishes plans for solution of clinical problems. Counsels patients on medical conditions, expected outcomes, family planning, child care, diet, and other therapeutic preventative health maintenance matters. Makes entries in patient's permanent medical records.

2.2. Coordinates patient care. Coordinates patient care with other members of health care team. Initiates consultation requests to other health professionals to provide more comprehensive patient management when indicated.

2.3. Instructs other members of the health care team. Instructs other personnel assigned to health care team on preventive medicine programs and other appropriate medical activities and functions, or as directed by a physician.

3.1. Knowledge. Knowledge is mandatory of: anatomy; physiology; emergency medical treatment; surgical techniques; sterilization and aseptic techniques; medical ethics; prescription and administration of drugs; operation of therapeutic and diagnostic equipment; medical terminology; and specialized medical treatments and procedures.

3.2. Education. For entry into this specialty, graduation from a Physician Assistant training program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) or its predecessors and acceptable to the Surgeon General, USAF, is mandatory. Certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants is required.

3.3. Training. Not used.

3.4. Experience. For award of AFSC 42G3, officers must be certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and completed a minimum of 6 months of experience in Physician Assistant assignments providing primary medical care.

3.5. Other. For entry into 42GXA/B/C/E, member must be a fully qualified 42G3. A qualified AFSC with a suffix is authorized upon completion of an additional residency or completion of a 12 month fellowship graduate medical education program related to the suffix and approved by the Surgeon General, HQ USAF.

B Otolaryngology

C General Surgery

E Emergency Medicine